Obama thanked Merkel for her friendship and praised her for her role in world politiics during his period in office.

Obama and Merkel have created a strong bond during the president’s eight years in office.

A statement from The White House said: "The President thanked Chancellor Merkel for her strong, courageous, and steady leadership."

Michelle Obama also joined her husband in the phone call.

The White House said: “Given their eight years of friendship and partnership, the President noted that it was fitting that his final call with a foreign leader was with Chancellor Merkel, and he wished her the very best going forward.”

GETTY

Trump will become the President of the US today officially

Angela Merkel in pictures
Tue, November 29, 2016

Angela Merkel has served as German Chancellor since 2005 and Leader of the Christian Democratic Union since 2000. We take a look at her political career in pictures.